Employee theft is a significant concern to retailers today. It undermines profits. It also hurts, as it involves breaking trust. Industry data shows retail crime costs Australian businesses about $8 billion and is increasing, with staff responsible for roughly 40% of shrinkage. The problem is that it's often small, daily losses that add up over a year.

As I have noted here the problem has gotten worse, particularly after COVID. Others are noticing it too.

The good news is that you likely already have the tools to stop it. Your Point of Sale (POS) system is more than just a cash register; it's your first line of defence.

Make Each Operator Accountable

A crucial first step is to assign each staff member their own cash drawer. This makes them personally responsible. Your POS system can drive many drawers from a single computer. This means each operator can work and reconcile their till without affecting others. This protects you because any missing funds are clearly linked to a single person, not the whole team. I suggest doing this immediately.

How to check your security KPIs?

To check these security KPIs, go to the cash register reports. (see orange arrow)

Then select Staff and click on "Sales security indicators" (see blue arrow)

Select the required period. 

A report will pop up with many indicators.

Using Your Sales Security Indicators

You can now use your POS reports to spot patterns that indicate theft.

In your POS system, these are called Security KPI's. They show how each operator uses sensitive functions at the register. The fact is that dishonest behaviour is usually a habit. This is because if a method works, an offender will typically repeat it, and so that repetition shows up as a pattern.

From your reports menu, run this report for at least four weeks. I prefer whole weeks over months because months vary in the number of Mondays, Saturdays, and so on. Four weeks provide enough data to identify real patterns rather than isolated errors.

The Key Indicators to Watch

When you run the report, look closely at these specific numbers for each staff member:

No Sales

This counts how often the cash drawer is opened without a sale being recorded. A consistently high number here is a major red flag. It suggests someone may be opening the till to remove cash while pretending to give change or "check" a price.

Voids and Error Corrections

You need to distinguish between a "line void" (fixing a single wrong item) and a "wholesale void" (cancelling the entire transaction). A person with many full-sale voids, especially during busy times, deserves closer attention, as what is commonly done is to enter the sale to show the customer the total, then void it if the customer pays cash.

Refunds and Negative Items

Watch for frequent refunds or items with negative prices. Be particularly careful if you see cash refunds processed when no customer is at the counter.

Average Sale Value and Items Per Sale

Compare each operator's average dollar sale and items per transaction to the store average. A consistently lower staff member may be under-ringing items. This is often a sign of "sweethearting," when one charges a friend for a single cheap item while handing over several expensive ones.

Interpreting the Numbers in Context

Numbers only make sense when you understand the context of your shop. You are not looking for perfection, as everyone makes the odd mistake. You are looking for patterns that stand out.

Keep these factors in mind when comparing staff:

Experience levels:

A junior working the Saturday rush will naturally have more transactions and mistakes than a senior on a quiet Tuesday morning.

Shift patterns:

Always compare like with like. Compare a Saturday staff member to another Saturday staff member.

Seasonality:

When you're really busy, like the lead-up to Christmas, you will see more scanning errors simply due to time pressure.

Look for staff whose indicators remain abnormally high across different periods, not just during the busiest weeks.

Linking POS Activity With CCTV

Finally, use your POS Software information with your security cameras. If your report shows an unusual refund, void, or "no sale" event at a specific time, go to your video footage for that exact moment.

Look:

• Was a customer actually present?
• Did cash change hands?
• Does the screen show the same items?

I have seen reports list transactions, but the camera told a different story. In one case, we clearly saw the employee pocket the money during a transaction flagged by the report as suspicious. This combination of complex data and visual evidence is the most effective way to confirm if you have a training issue or a theft problem.

Conclusion

Securing your shop means you have to monitor constantly. Utilising the security KPI's in your POS system can help spot likely risks early and safeguard your hard-earned profits.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

We all know Google is the big player in search engines. Many retailers spend time worrying about their Google ranking. I have seen large shops have an SEO person to make sure it goes well. But if you ignore Bing Places for Business, you are missing out on customers.

In 2025, setting up your shop on Bing is not just "nice to have." It is a smart move to grow your business. Does it cost you NO!

According to Microsoft data, about 17 million people in Australia use its search network each month.

Here is a secret many retailers miss: many of these users are at work, where their work computers have Bing set as the default search engine. Its windows default and these people search during the workday, this is when most people buy. These people have money.

If your shop isn't on Bing, you are invisible to them.

Why You Should Care About Bing

A potential customer asks their computer, "Where can I find a gift shop near me?" Are you there in the answer?

If your business isn't listed correctly on Bing, the computer will recommend someone else, since the AI won't know you exist.

You want your shop to be the answer.

The good news? You can get this sorted in 5 minutes.

How to Set Up Your Profile Quickly

You don't need to be a wizard, as there is a shortcut that saves you heaps of time.

If you already have a Google Business Profile, and you should have, if not, see how to set one up.

Now, once you have a Google Business Profile, you can copy all that information straight over to Bing. Here is how you do it:

Go to the Bing Places Website:

Head over to bing.com/forbusiness. You will need a Microsoft account (like Outlook or Hotmail) to sign in.

Claim Your Business:

Search for your shop's name. If you see it, click "Claim this business." If you don't see it, click "Add new business."

Use the Import Tool:

This is the best part. Choose the option to "Import from Google Business Profile." This pulls in your address, hours, and photos instantly.

Check Your Details:

Look closely at your Name, Address, and Phone number. It must be 100% correct. If it's not, you could miss out on customers.

Write a Good Description:

Tell people what you do. Use simple words that customers search for. For example: "Your local newsagency for books and gifts. Find us inside Albert Village Shopping Centre, right near Woolworths."

Pick Your Categories:

Don't just pick "Retail." Be specific. Here, for example, I would select "Book Shop," "Greeting Card Shop," or "Stationery Supplier." This helps the right people find you.

If you are unsure what to write here, use your sales reports in your POS Software.

Then put in a simple words customers search eg "gluten-free bakery," "men's work boots" or "dog toys."

Add Photos:

Good ones, pictures sell products. Upload bright, clear photos of your best displays, here is how to take photos for your business

Make sure that your top-selling item in a department is listed.

Don't Make These Common Mistakes

I have seen many shop owners make small errors that cost them sales. Watch out for these traps:

The verification process.

Although "Import from Google" is fast, sometimes you will find that Microsoft will require a manual postcard/phone verification, if so do not give up, they are just trying to make sure the information is accurate and what you say is true. Fill it out. Then keep an eye out, as sometimes it gets lost in their system.

Wrong Opening Hours:

A potential customer can get angry after driving to your shop only to find the doors locked, even though the profile said you were open; you may also get a negative review. Constantly update your hours for public holidays.

Bad Map position:

If you are in a big shopping centre, make sure the location is correct at your front door. Sometimes they are way off. This helps people find you easily. What is the point of telling people all this information if they cannot find your shop?

How to Get even More Customers Through the Door

Once your profile is set up, you can use a few tricks to get more attention.

Post Special Deals:

Bing lets you post "Deals" right on your listing. You could offer "20% off all magazines" or a special bundle price. This grabs attention quickly.

I think Bing's "Deals" feature is more prominent and easier to use than Google's.

Reply to Reviews:

It is very important to ask your regulars to leave a review. Always thank them. If a customer leaves a negative review, respond politely to resolve the issue. This demonstrates that you care.

Conclusion

Fixing your Bing Places for Business profile is an easy win. It doesn't cost money, and it takes minimal effort. Probably about 5 minutes.

Make sure your details are correct, that your profile looks good, millions of Australian shoppers use Bing and Microsoft tools and don't leave those sales on the table.

[Claim Your Free Bing Places Listing Now]

Update: This article had to be rewritten as Bing procedures changes recently

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

A speed bump is a physical disruption in the road that slows you down. You pay attention. Shift from "autopilot" to "alert." In retail, a speed bump slows down customers, too. A retail speed bump is a strategically placed display located in your storefront. Its job isn't necessarily to sell the product it holds (though that's a nice bonus); its primary job is to physically and visually interrupt the customer's walk. It gets them to break their stride, lowers their gaze, and switches their brain from "walking past" to "browsing."

Without a speed bump, many customers will walk straight past your aisles, eyes glazed over, heading for a specific destination or simply drifting through without engaging. By placing a curated "obstacle" in their path, you force a pause. If they do not stop, they will not buy. It is that simple.

Here is how you can build a speed bump that stops traffic.

Why It Works: The 427% Discovery

Here is a study by the Russell R. Mueller Retail Hardware Research Foundation that found that in hardware stores, dump bins (a classic form of speed bump) increased sales of the items inside by a staggering 427%. However, the principle remains true across all retail sectors: Interruption creates sales.

Now, before you run out and buy a wire cage for your boutique, let's pause.

That 427% figure comes from the hardware industry, where "rummaging" is part of the experience. If you run a high-end store, e.g., a gift shop, a wire-dump bin might signal "cheap" rather than "value." So what retailers do often is not "dump bins." We bought "Discovery Tables." The psychological trigger is the same.

When done right, this display:

• Disrupts Autopilot: It physically and visually halts traffic.
• Lowers Risk: It usually features lower-priced items, making the mental barrier to entry much lower than a full-priced rack.
• Initiates the "Yes": Once a customer says "yes" to picking up a small item, they are psychologically primed to say "yes" to entering the store and buying more.

Step 1: The "What" – Don't Guess, Use Your POS Data

This is where most retailers get it wrong. They treat their speed bump display as a place to put "whatever we have too much of."

This is a mistake. Your speed bump is prime real estate. It is the billboard for your business. If you fill it with junk that nobody wants, you are telling everyone that your store is full of junk.

Instead of guessing, you need to turn to your POS system. Your point-of-sale software is not just for taking payments; it is a goldmine of intelligence.

POS reports

You are looking for specific criteria:

1. Dead Stock: Items that haven't sold in 90 to 120 days. These are costing you money in storage and cash flow.
2. High Margin: Items where you have enough markup that you can afford to discount them slightly if needed, or bundle them.
3. Impulse Friendly: Items that don't require sizing or complex explanations. A scarf is a great speed bump item.

Another strategy is to use your POS system to find high-volume, low-cost items. Look at your "Best Sellers by Quantity" report. If you have a $15 candle that sells like hotcakes, that is a perfect candidate for a speed bump. Why? Because it is a proven winner. Putting it front and centre shows new customers that you stock desirable, affordable items. It acts as "social proof" that your store is worth entering.

Action Step: Before you move a single table, print out your "Slow Movers" report from your POS. Highlight the top 5 small, visually appealing, non-perishable items. These are your speed bump candidates.

Step 2: The Boutique Approach – Anatomy of a Perfect Display

Now that your POS system has told you what to sell, let's talk about how to sell it.

We want to create a "boutique discovery" zone, not a bargain basement.

The Fixture

Ditch the wire bin. Use a fixture that matches your store's vibe:

• The Nesting Table: A small, waist-high wooden table is inviting. It creates a flat surface that is easy to shop from.
• Vintage Crates: Stacking sturdy wooden crates creates a rustic, market-feel that implies freshness and discovery.
• The "Tower": A tiered stand works well for smaller items, allowing you to create height without taking up much floor space.

The Arrangement: The Pyramid Principle

Don't just lay items flat. Flat is boring. You need height and depth.

• Build Up: Use acrylic risers, books, or small boxes under a tablecloth to create different levels on your table.
• The Pyramid: Arrange products in a pyramid shape. The tallest item goes in the centre or back, with smaller items cascading down. This keeps the eye moving.
• Mass Up: Abundance sells. A table with three items looks picked over. A table with 30 items looks like a fresh shipment. If you don't have enough stock (which your inventory management software would warn you about), use smaller baskets to keep the items looking plentiful.

The Signage

Your sign is the "headline" of the story. A neon "SALE" sign can look desperate. Instead, use language that implies value and discovery.

• Bad: "50% Off Old Stock"
• Bad: "Clearance bin"
• Good: "Market Day Finds: Under $10"
• Good: "Last Chance"
• Good: "Staff Favourites"

Use a small A4 frame or a clean chalkboard. Ensure the price is clearly visible. If they cannot find the price, you've lost 50% of the walkers.

Step 3: Pricing Strategy

You have arrested their attention. You have shown them a nice product. Now, you need to trigger the impulse buy.

Decision fatigue is real. If a customer has to do mental maths ("It's $25 less 30%... uh..."), they will keep walking. Your speed bump pricing must be instant and frictionless.

• The "Power of One": A single, flat price point is most effective. "Everything on this table is under $15."
• The Bundle: "2 for $30." This encourages them to dig for a second item, doubling their dwell time at the table.
• The Anchor: Place a sign that says "Was $45, Now $20." This anchors the value at $45, making the $20 price tag feel like a win.

Step 4: Measuring Impact and Improving

You can't manage what you don't measure. This is where your Point of Sale (POS) system becomes your most valuable employee.

Many retailers set up a display and "feel" like it's working. But feelings don't pay the rent. You need complex numbers.

Tracking Conversion

1. Mark the Date: Note exactly when you set up the speed bump in your calendar.
2. Monitor Velocity: After 1 week, pull a sales report for the specific SKUs listed in the table. Compare the sales velocity (units sold per day) from the week before they were on the table to the week during.
3. Check Basket Size: This is the advanced move. Use your POS reporting to see if the customers who bought the speed bump item also bought other items.
   • If they only bought the $10 item, your speed bump is working as a sale but not as a funnel. You should move the table slightly closer to the door to pull them in.
   • If they bought the $10 item plus a $50 shirt: Success! The speed bump did its job of arresting the walker and converting them into a high-value customer.

Rotate or Die

A stale speed bump is worse than no speed bump. If a local walks past your shop every morning and sees the same sun-faded books for three weeks, they will stop looking.

Use your POS system to set a reminder. Rotate the stock every 7 to 14 days. Even if the stock hasn't sold out, move it back inside and bring out something fresh. The change itself catches the eye.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you rush to drag a table out to the footpath, keep these warnings in mind:

• The Weather: Australian weather is unpredictable. If you are on a high street, ensure your display is waterproof or easy to bring in quickly in case of sudden rain.
• The "Blocking" Effect: Ensure your speed bump doesn't physically block the entrance. It should be to the side of the flow, not a barricade.
• Brand Confusion: If you sell luxury linen, don't put a bin of cheap plastic toys out front to get attention. It confuses the customer about what you actually sell.

Conclusion

The battle for the modern shopper is won in seconds. We live in a distracted, fast-paced world where "autopilot" is the default setting.

A well-executed retail speed bump is your tool to break that autopilot. It is a friendly interruption that says, "Hey, take a breath. Look at this beautiful thing. Come inside."

But remember, a pretty table isn't enough. Data must support it.

• Use your POS system to identify the right stock.
• Apply visual merchandising principles to present it attractively.
• Use your POS reporting to monitor the results and refine your strategy.

Don't let another potential customer pass by unnoticed. This week, log in to your POS, identify five suitable items, and create your first speed bump. You might find that your best sales days begin on the footpath.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

The Christmas rush is on for Australian SMB retailers. This year, customers are more fuzzy. This is better for SMB shops.

New research from the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and Roy Morgan indicates that gift-buying participation has slightly decreased by 9%. Shoppers, however, are now spending more and prioritising genuine connection. We call this the "Intentional" Shopper. To them, it's no longer about who has the cheapest plastic gadget, something that an SMB retailer finds hard to compete with.

Who is the "Intentional" Shopper?

We keep hearing this word: "Intentional." But what does it actually mean for your daily trade?

In 2025, Australian shoppers are swapping "loyalty for logic". They aren't just walking into a shop and buying a cheap thing. They are researching first. They have a specific person in mind, a specific budget, and a particular feeling in mind for the gift. Clearly, they want to buy treasures.

The data backs this up. High-spending shoppers aged 35 to 54 are averaging $853 in spend this season. That is a serious amount of money. But they aren't spending it on just anything. They are looking for value, quality, and meaning.

Why This Matters for You

This is great news for independent retailers. You don't have to compete with big-box stores on price-slashing. An intentional shopper walks into your store, looking for you to be the expert. They want you to say, "If your kid loves their dog, she will absolutely adore this dog toy."

That personal advice is something online shops cannot do.

The Return to Physical Media

One of the most encouraging trends for independent retailers this year is the renewed interest in tangible "Recreational Goods," including books.

We are seeing a massive pushback against the digital world. People are tired of screens. They want things they can hold, smell, and keep. This has driven a surge in demand for:

• Physical Books: Hardcovers are having a huge moment.
• Stationery: Beautiful journals and pens are top gifts.
• Leisure Items: Puzzles, board games, and craft kits.

The data suggests that these high-spending 35-54-year-olds are driving this demand. They want gifts that offer "genuine value" and an experience.

How to Merchandise for "Touch"

Because these shoppers want tactile experiences, your store needs to be hands-on.

• Open the Box: Don't seal everything. Have a sample journal open so people can feel the paper.
• Create Reading Nooks: If you sell books, stack them so they invite people to pick them up.
• Bundle It Up: Use your point-of-sale system to see which items are often bought together. If people who buy a specific cookbook often buy a wooden spoon, bundle them together on a display table. This makes the "intentional" choice easy for the customer.

Personal Connection Wins the Sale

This Christmas, consumers are demonstrating a clear preference for personal touches over mere convenience. In a significant market shift, only 22% of Australians say they are making more purchases online than a year ago—less than half the level seen in 2021.

This is a massive retreat from digital-only shopping. It reinforces that consumers are deliberately choosing to visit physical stores. In fact, most Australian consumers prefer shopping in brick-and-mortar stores.

Why? Because they want to find value and Connection.

The "Trust" Factor

As Catherine Jolley of Roy Morgan notes, "In this environment, trust is your most important asset." Shoppers want to see, touch, and trust the product before they purchase. They also want to trust you.

When an intentional customer walks in, they aren't just looking for stock; they are looking for help. This gives you a crucial advantage. You can leverage product knowledge to enhance the look and feel of your gift lines.

Of course, if the intentional shopper might come in for a specific $50 book, but if they see a beautiful $10 bookmark or a $15 candle right next to the register, they are very likely to add it to the basket. We call this "basket building."

Using Tech to Build Connection

The right technology actually helps you build better human connections.

Those small moments of service are what turn a one-time Christmas shopper into a loyal regular for the whole of 2026.

Timing for the Intentional Shopper

The data also highlights the importance of early preparation. Nearly one in three consumers (29%) started their Christmas shopping earlier than in 2024.

The "Layby" Advantage

I think these shoppers are not just early because they are looking, but also because they are trying to spread their budgets over several pay cycles. It ensures they secure these costly items. I know it's a pain, but consider offering "Layby," which allows customers to secure that expensive, perfect gift now and pay it off over a few weeks.

Check Your System: Make sure you know how to use your POS system's Layby feature. It is a one-click process. Your staff need training on the Layby, too, or you might miss out on these high-value sales.

Strategy: The Counter Display

• Low Cost, High Joy: Place small, tactile items near your Point of Sale (POS) system. Things that don't need much thought but bring a spark of joy.
• Gift Add-ons: A sign for your cards, wrapping paper, and ribbons should always be displayed at the checkout.

Is Your Store Ready?

If your store is a mess, these calm, focused shoppers will walk right out. You are trying to sell a premium item

The holiday shopping season is here. Your inventory management strategy during this period can make or break your seasonal success. Having fully stocked shelves isn't just about meeting demand – it's about maintaining customer satisfaction and maximising revenue potential.

The GMROI Report: Your Stock Level Lifesaver

Your POS system's hidden gem, the GMROI (Gross Margin Return on Investment) report, provides an immediate snapshot of your stock levels. This report reveals critical insights beyond basic stock counts.

How to Access the Report

We have a unique report that is super fast to run and gives you an immediate snapshot of your stock levels.

In the Cash register report, call up the GMROI (see the selection highlighted) in your point of sale software in the reports here.

You can select the list of options you want, and I suggest you go over these options later when you have time.

You should do this by departments or suppliers, whatever makes more sense to you. 

Now you get a report like this.

As you can see, the items are all listed.

Let’s look at it in detail:

What we are looking for are items with low on-hand figures, decent sales, and reasonable ROI%. ROI% is the return on investment. It is one of the best ways to determine how valuable your stock items are to your business. It is calculated by the (unit sold) x (Profit)/ (Average stock cost), and you need about 3.2 in the industry. However, as you can see here, there are many items above and below it.

Understanding the GMROI Report

Once you've generated the report, you'll see a list of all your items with several key metrics. Here's what to focus on:

• Stock on Hand: This shows your current inventory levels for each item.
• Sales: This indicates how well the item sells.
• ROI%: The Return on Investment percentage is crucial for determining an item's value to your business.

While these metrics provide valuable data points, interpreting them effectively is critical to making informed inventory decisions.

Interpreting the Results

When analysing your GMROI report, keep an eye out for:

Low Stock, High Sales

These are your priority items. If they have a good ROI, you'll want to reorder them immediately to avoid stockouts during peak shopping.

Reasonable ROI%

The industry standard is about 3.2, but you'll notice variations across your inventory. Your star performers are significantly above this, while those below might need attention.

Special Considerations

Since your store mixes low-margin traffic drivers (magazines/lottery) with high-margin items (gifts/cards), apply the report differently across categories:

• Some items are sale or return, so although they do not make much, you do not pay for them, although they can affect cash flow.

Taking Action

Now that you have this information at your fingertips, it's time to act:

• Identify Critical Items: Look for products with low stock levels but strong sales and good ROI. These should be your top priority for restocking.
• Place Orders: Contact your suppliers for these critical items immediately. Remember, they might be experiencing high demand from other retailers, too.
• Adjust Forecasts: Use this data to refine your sales forecasts for the holiday season. This can help you avoid similar situations in the future.
• Consider Promotions: For items with high stock levels and lower sales, consider running promotions to move inventory and free up cash for better-performing products.

The Power of Your POS System

Your POS system is more than just a cash register—it's a powerful ally in managing your retail business effectively. By regularly utilising tools like the GMROI report, you can:

• Prevent stockouts of popular items
• Optimise your inventory investment
• Improve cash flow by identifying slow-moving stock
• Enhance overall profitability by focusing on high-ROI items

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What should I look for in this GMROI report?

A: look at these three columns.

• Stock on Hand (your current inventory levels)
• Sales (see how items are selling)
• ROI% (Return on Investment percentage)

Pay particular attention to items with low stock but high sales and a good ROI, as these may need immediate reordering.

Q: What's considered a good GMROI?

A: 3.2 or higher is often considered good. As this will vary by industry and product type, I suggest you evaluate the report and judge.

Q: How can I improve my GMROI?

A: Strategies include:

1. Increasing sales without increasing inventory levels
2. Reducing inventory levels without affecting sales
3. Increasing gross margin through better pricing or supplier negotiations
4. Improving inventory management to reduce excess stock
5. Push high-performing products
6. Implementing just-in-time inventory practices
7. Using your reports for better demand forecasting

Q: How often should I run the GMROI report?

A: Run it frequently (daily or weekly) during busy seasons like holidays. In less busy periods, monthly or quarterly might suffice.

Q: How can the GMROI report help improve cash flow?

A: The report helps identify slow-moving stock. By addressing these items through promotions or adjusted ordering, you can free up cash tied in excess inventory and reinvest in better-performing products.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

Looking at Australia's top-selling 2025 planners and calendars, people focus on family coordination tools, premium habit journals, and humour novelties priced $15–$60. Retailers see strong demand for easy-use organisers amid digital trends, as shoppers crave these paper organisation tools right now. Some sites that are useful to look at for ideas are Calendar Club and Amazon best sellers list.

Now while digital family screens are starting to gain sales, something I will discuss in another post, affordable paper alternatives dominate and outsell these pricier options for example Skylight is $529+, which demand technical setup. Retailers should stock simple, instant-use alternatives for families.

Top Family Calendars Australia 2025

Magnetic fridge calendars ($15–$40), large dry-erase wall planners, chore/meal charts, and yearly sticker wall planners lead sales. Families love their visibility and wipeable surfaces as home hubs. Place them also near greeting cards for impulse buys.

Premium Habit Tracker Journals

Professionals, students, and young men (18–35) snap up A5 habit trackers, gratitude journals like the 6-Minute Diary, and goal-setting diaries with marble covers. These boost mental health, time-blocking, and goals via pen-on-paper.

Funny Calendars Australia 2025

Desk tear-off calendars like Far Side and Thoughts of Dog, plus wall puns, animals, firefighters, and pop culture novelties ($25–$30) outsell basics. Calendar Club's page-a-day humour tops charts.

Learning Compendiums for Lifelong Learners

These are dedicated notebooks for people to collect notes, ideas, diagrams, and their reflections on a subject over time are also selling well. Some higher-end versions feature elastic closures, ribbon markers, inside pockets, and contents pages. Stock them next to diaries as "your ideas companion" for students, professionals, and learners. I recommend putting them right next to your diaries.

Retail Tips for 2025 Planners Australia

Track sales by creating a POS category for planners and calendars. Monitor these family tools, habit journals, and humour items separately.

Customer common product questions and complaints you need to know

Q: Best magnetic fridge calendar for family schedules?
A: Magnetic fridge calendars need a strong magnet, dry-erase surfaces, and monthly or weekly views to suit busy Aussie families for tracking appointments, chores, and meals at a glance.

Q: Size of magnetic fridge calendars?
A: You need a few ranges in size. Make sure you have a procedure to demonstrate the different sizes. You do not want the customer saying they will come back after they measure the fridge. Often, people want a larger 14x12-inch monthly/weekly planner with big blocks that fit multiple schedules without cramping. 

Q: Concerns over the fridge calendar that keeps falling off?
A: Suggest a model with double magnets or suggest an acrylic backing that grips stainless steel fridges securely.

Q: Which habit tracker journal for goals and routines?
A: A good A5 habit tracker or goal-setting journal should have monthly grids, reflection pages, and prompts, as they help professionals and students mark off daily habits like water intake or finances.

Q: Reusable wipeable calendars for the whole family?
A: Dry-erase magnetic monthly planners stick on fridges for shared use, letting everyone update events without paper waste, simple and effective.  A good idea is to suggest here several markers so people can use colour-coding. In my family, blue is regular, green is work, yellow is family, red is urgent and purple is for appointments.

Q: Funny calendars that aren't boring basics?
A: Suggest a page-a-day desk or wall calendars with puns, animals, or pop culture, like Far Side, to keep things light.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

Why is the POS scan rate important?

Your cashiers must process transactions quickly and accurately. This keeps lanes moving. Bad barcodes slow checkouts and frustrate family shoppers buying magazines, books, gifts, or greeting cards. What we need to do is boost POS Software scan rates.

We have a unique KPI specially designed for this, %Scan. This KPI metric measures the percentage of retail barcode scans versus manually keyed entries. Using it will improve retail checkout efficiency.

How to Check Your POS Scan Rate

Go to the cash register reports

> Select Sales,

> Then "Dissection Sales/Profitability for a Given Period."

Set it for the past three months (or 12 for trends) and run the report.

You will get a report that looks like this one. Now, look at the last row marked.

Now run down the list.

You are looking for dissections with high quantities and low scan rates, as these are the big problems here.

Now, examine the %Scan column in the last row or breakdown. Look at the Total Scan. If you are doing a lot of scans and your %Scan rate is low, you have a problem. You need a higher %Scan to deliver quicker transactions and shorter queues in your shop, and it also gives you more accurate inventory data. Besides, it is a pain for staff, as it reduces manual entry errors (Industry figures indicate about one error per 300 characters in manual entry for cashiers).

How to improve the POS scan rate?

To improve POS efficiency, start here:

Test scanners

First, for reliable performance, we often find that when we examine the %Scan, the problem lies with the scanner. If so, clean the scanner lenses and adjust angles. Consider it part of your POS system troubleshooting.

Avoid glare or shiny surfaces.

The problem sometimes is that the objects you are scanning are bright, which causes glare. I have noticed this often happens with frosty drinks and plastic covers on greeting cards. You need to be careful here.

Audit barcodes

Ensure that barcodes are clear on products. If they are real problems, talk to the suppliers, as poor barcode quality leads to unscannable items, forcing manual transaction entries that slow checkout lines and increase human errors, causing lost sales and customer frustration. In the worst case, consider printing in-house barcodes for these products.

Standardise barcode placement

Often, the cashier cannot find the barcode. In your shop, make a policy that all in-house barcodes should be in the same place, eg on the top left, at the rear middle, etc. It does not matter where; just be consistent. I prefer the bottom rear over the front; it covers some of the product.

Conclusion

Run your POS scan rate report now to spot low-scanning categories to check out your speed retail.

Then monitor %Scan trends. Just because you get it right now does not mean a problem will start to appear soon.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

As 2026 approaches, your POS software is your most valuable asset. By analysing historical data, you can predict exactly which diary formats will sell, preventing costly stock-outs. Don't guess, use your data.   [Learn how to run the Best Sales Report for forecasting here].

Prominently Display Diaries In-Store

Place diaries where people can see them, make sure to add signage and posters noting your stock diaries; don't assume they know—mention them while serving other shoppers. Make sure customers easily spot your diary selection by placing it in a prime spot. Arrange them attractively. I advise pyramid stacking for hardcover diaries on tables to create height, and place 'impulse' items like gel pens in bins directly next to them. I also suggest highlighting your top sellers. People will gravitate to these if you point them out. 

Promote Related Products Like Planners

Boost sales beyond standard diaries with these hot categories:

• Travel Planners: Help plan dream trips with journals—pair with your gift lines.
• Health and Fitness Planners: Many people today are using wellness journals 
• Work Planners: Attract professionals with workflow tools; display beside nice pens, highlighters, and notepads.

Handling Common Customer Questions

Your team must receive brief training that positions your shop as the "expert" hub.

Equip your team with these answers to close more sales on the floor: 

Q: Will my fountain pen bleed through this paper?
A: "That is a common concern with the recent changes to the cheaper paper that the diary companies are using. Make sure you can show these customers diaries that use 100GSM paper, which is thick enough to prevent ghosting, even with wetter inks.

Q: Do you have any vertical layouts for time-blocking?
A: Make sure you have them, and you can show them. Most people use ones with 30-minute increments.

Q: Are Australian public holidays and school terms marked?
A: Many international brands miss our local dates. Make sure you have an Australian-designed calendar that includes state-specific public holidays and 2026 school term dates.

Q: Is A5 or B6 better for carrying in handbags?
A: "A5 is the classic standard if you mostly leave it on your desk. However, for carrying in a handbag, B6 is trending, as its size is compact enough to hold light items but wide enough to write comfortably.

Q: Can I get a layout that has a weekly view on one side and a notes page on the other?
A: These have a 'Weekly Notebook' layout. It is incredibly popular right now because it separates your rigid appointments (on the left) from your flexible to-do lists (on the right). 

Q: Why are there so many undated planners this year?
A: We're seeing a massive shift toward 'guilt-free' planning. Undated planners are perfect because if you go on holiday or skip a busy week, you don't waste pages. You can pick it right back up without seeing empty dates staring you in the face. 

Get Organised for Success

Organise a winning diary campaign by using POS trends, displaying prominently, talking to customers, and stocking 2026 trends like all-in-one lifestyle planners. This leverages peak sea

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

Readership vs. Unit Sales

Years ago, I tracked official magazine sales figures religiously. I stopped because the magazine industry shifted from reporting verified sales (copies sold) to readership (estimated readers). The result became increasingly disconnected from retail reality.

Despite this, we must work with the data we have, so I decided to look into it. So, let us look at the latest Roy Morgan figures for the 2024/25 financial year by Roy Morgan.

Roy Morgan 2025 Data: Niche Growth vs. Mass Market Decline

Analysing the "Top 25" magazines by print readership (excluding free titles like Coles Magazine), the market is seeing a slow squeeze rather than a cliff-edge drop. Across a sample of 20 major paid titles, the total print readership declined by approximately 2% year-on-year.

This aligns with broader market data showing that print readership is holding surprisingly steady. As of late 2025, over 10.9 million Australians (nearly half the population) still read a print magazine, and when digital audiences are included, that number jumps to over 14.6 million .

However, the stability is uneven. The market has split into two distinct directions:

• Mass-market decline: General interest weeklies and "catch-all" lifestyle titles are under pressure. For example, major weeklies like Woman's Day have seen readership dips of around 9% in recent reports.
• Niche growth: Specialist titles are thriving. Enthusiasts are still buying content they cannot easily find for free. We are seeing significant gains in titles such as Australian Geographic and House & Garden, as well as automotive titles such as Street Machine .

The "Neighbour" Effect

The 2% overall decline is so minor that most retailers wouldn't notice. The fact is that a store's performance depends more on local competition for retail profitability than on national trends.

Interestingly, here, benchmarks showed more than 50% of newsagents reported magazine sales are up in 2025.

I have seen this firsthand with a client whose magazine sales actually increased this year. Why? A nearby competitor drastically reduced their magazine display, effectively handing those customers over. The demand was still there; the competitor just stopped serving it. This proves that magazines can still be a viable category for those who commit to maintaining a proper range.

4 Strategies to Increase Magazine Profit in 2025

To make magazines work in this environment, you need to look less at official "readership" surveys. The relationship between a half-billion-dollar industry and your own shop is not much. Trust and use your own data.

1. Treat Your POS as the Source of Truth

Do not stock based on what publishers push; stock based on what sells. Use your POS system to run a monthly selling report by units sold and gross profit.

• Expand facings for high-performing niche titles (hobbies, health, motoring).
• Cut returns ruthlessly on titles that haven't performed for three consecutive months. These are just taking up space that could be used to sell magazines that do sell.

2. Avoid Driving Digital Migration

3. Value the Magazine Shopper

Basket analysis consistently shows that magazine buyers are valuable. They rarely buy just a magazine. They over-index in high-margin impulse items such as greeting cards, stationery, and lotteries.

4. Long-term

Looking at magazine sales over 20 years, it's clear that magazines aren't a viable long-term investment. So I wouldn't suggest spending a lot of money on it based on long-term future growth, I know I would not, but you can still make money from it now.

Looking Ahead

Millions of Australians still pay for print magazines; it's still a big market. A magazine customer can be a good, repeat and loyal customer. We must be realistic: we cannot expect the boom times of the past, but with a data-led range focused on enthusiast niches, we can maintain a profitable category well into the future.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

Have you forgotten or decided to drop out of Black Friday? Here's Your 30-Minute Rescue Plan

• It’s not too late: 30 minutes is enough to launch a profitable campaign.
• Focus on "Dead Stock": Use your POS to instantly find old inventory.
• Please keep it simple: Handwritten signs often convert better than polished graphics because of their urgency.
• Extend the sale: Turn a Friday panic into a weekend profit centre.

Today is the official start of the Christmas Shopping Season. In my experience helping hundreds of retailers, the clients who never planned a Black Friday Sale but did one at the last minute saw sales.

If you are reading this and feeling like you have missed the boat, it is absolutely not too late. You can have a profitable campaign up and running in less than half an hour. Today, you are positioned to capture the "last-minute" wave of shoppers actively seeking deals. Do not lose the chance.

Why You Should Participate (The Evidence)

You might think you need weeks of hype, but the data disagrees. In 2024, in-store shopping made up two-thirds of Black Friday purchases, with Australians spending $2.9 billion in physical stores versus $2.2 billion online. People prefer to touch and take items home immediately.

Even without weeks of planning, participating is highly effective. ABS data shows that retail turnover rose 3% year-on-year last November, driven almost entirely by this event. Shoppers expect these deals, and physical stores in local strips and centres benefit from a "halo effect"—your customers are looking at other shops, and they are already in a spending mindset.

Step 1: Set Up Your Same-Day Flash Sale

You do not need to discount your entire store. In fact, you shouldn't think that it's a mug's game. The goal here is to use the old stock as an introduction to get people into your shop to buy and get cash in the register.

Choose the Right "Doorbuster" Products

Select products that will attract bargain hunters and help you clear space. Focus on:

• Overstocked items: Things you have too many of.
• Slow-selling products: Items that have been sitting on the shelf for months.
• Bundles: Combine a popular small item with a slow-moving one to create a high-value gift pack.

Use Your POS to Find Them Instantly

Your [Point of Sale (POS) system]is your secret weapon here. Manual stock checks take hours; your POS does this in seconds. You don't need to guess what isn't selling; let the data tell you.

1. Search your reports for "Dead Stock Report."
2. Run the report to filter for items with a "Date Last Sold" of more than 180 days ago.
3. Action: These are your sale candidates. Bin them near the front entrance with a sale sign. This creates the visual excitement bargain hunters love.

Step 2: Promote Your Sale (Low Effort, High Impact)

What is the point of having a Black Friday Sale if you don't tell people about it? You do not need a graphic designer. Your "ad" is your physical shopfront, which shoppers will pass today.

Simple Signage

Grab a marker or print some simple A4/A3 signs immediately. Do not worry about them being perfect; urgency sells better than polish.

• Sign 1: "Black Friday Flash Sale - Today Only!"
• Sign 2: "Doorbuster Specials - While Stocks Last"
• Sign 3: "Shop Small, Save Big - Support Local"

Step 3: Leverage Your POS Software

Track results: Monitor your "Real-Time Sales" dashboard to see what is moving. If a specific item isn't selling by 2 PM, increase the discount instantly.

Post-Black Friday Strategy: Extend It

You don't have to stop today. Rename the sale "Black Friday Weekend" to keep the momentum going through Sunday and Monday.

Australian consumers are active all weekend. By extending your offers, you give people who worked on Friday a chance to buy on Saturday and Sunday.

Black Friday Strategy FAQ

Common questions we get from retailers launching last-minute campaigns.

Q: Will a last-minute sale make my business look desperate?
A: No. Shoppers expect Black Friday deals. If you don't participate, you look like you're missing out. A "Flash Sale" implies exclusivity and excitement, not desperation.

Q: I can't afford to discount my best-sellers. What should I do?
A: Never discount your best-sellers; they will sell anyway. Only discount inventory that is costing you money by taking up shelf space (dead stock). This converts stagnant assets into cash flow.

Q: Is it worth competing with the big box stores?
A: Yes, you have as much right to this traffic as they do. They are spending the money on advertisements, and you can also get some benefits.

Post-Black Friday Strategies

Extend it, extend it and extend it. Black Friday is much longer than a day nowadays.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

Businesses in Australia are facing significant changes with the Government's push to ban surcharges on debit cards and, now, possibly the Reserve Bank's call to remove many other card surcharges, such as EFTPOS and credit cards, from mid-2026. This shift won't wipe out payment costs; it'll just force someone to absorb them, as it will hit business margins.

We have now been actively involved in this discussion, having submitted to the RBA on the matter. Other submissions can be see here.

If surcharges vanish, that feed eats straight into the slim profit they give now for products like Lotto. Many such low margin items raise a major problem. Here for example the ticket price is set by the lottery operator, not the shop. If we are banned from putting a debit surcharge on those transactions, but still pay fees on every tap, the only place left to recover the cost is the rest of the shop. That could mean having to nudge up prices on other prices to make up for the margin lost on fixed‑price lines such as Lotto. Whether that is what regulators and product suppliers intend to allow remains unclear. We are already now starting to look into this problem for our POS System users.

If you want to know where you stand now use your POS system reports to help you track the current situation.

Premium Debit Cards

This matter is not being discussed, but should be, as not all debit cards play fair. Premium ones, for example, those with Qantas points or cashback, run on Visa or Mastercard schemes rather than on cheap domestic EFTPOS. These "rewards debit" cards have higher fees to subsidise the value of flyers' points. It's unfair that merchants are paying for bank customers to get extra benefits. If a blanket surcharge ban treats all these debit cards the same with no surcharge, you will be subsidising flyers' points without recourse.

If all "debit cards" are made surcharge-free, that most likely means these high‑cost reward debit cards will also have to be accepted with no surcharge, even though they cost a lot more to process than a plain EFTPOS debit card. That creates a fundamental unfairness for small retailers: customers are encouraged to chase rewards, while the shop silently absorbs the extra cost. From the retailer's point of view, a "tap‑and‑go" debit card on the credit card route can be expensive, like some credit cards. It will be great for the banks and payment providers as the public will rapidly switch to these debit cards.

There is also a practical problem that no one has really answered yet: how is a merchant supposed to know that a card is such a "debit card" before processing it? Most terminals only reveal the transaction type **after** authorisation. If the rules say "you may not surcharge debit, that leaves us guessing at the point of sale, even if surcharges are allowed. Banks and payment providers should be required to give merchants a clear, simple way to see that this tap is not a standard debit card but a premium card **before** acceptance. If they did this, our software could adjust the surcharge.

Conclusion

For now, we are waiting to see where the final rules land, but our message in the review has been simple. Suppose governments want to make debit card payments surcharge-free. In that case, they also need to make sure that (1) high‑cost "reward" debit cards do not quietly dump even more cost on small retailers, and (2) the systems give merchants clear information at the point of sale so we can actually follow the rules in the real world.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

I was at a retail meeting recently, and the topic that got people talking and thinking was "virtual cashiers." It is already happening in America. Here's how it works: instead of having a cashier standing at your counter, you have a screen. On that screen is a real person, live via video, like Zoom. That person is working in another country, maybe the Philippines or India, but they are is your cashier in your shop.

The setup depends on what kind of business you run.

For Quick-Service Businesses

Say you run a fast-food shop; the virtual cashier works just like a regular cashier. They greet the customer, take the order, enter it into your POS system, and guide the customer to tap their card on the payment terminal. Between customers, they can answer your phone, monitor your security cameras, or handle other tasks.

For Retail Shops

If you run a newsagency, chemist, pet shop, or similar business, it works as a hybrid between self-checkout and a staffed counter. The customer scans their own items with a barcode scanner, while the virtual cashier monitors everything via a camera feed. They can help if a barcode won't scan, handle age verification for tobacco, or answer questions. Most importantly, they watch to make sure everything gets scanned, which will address the biggest problem with self-checkouts: theft. Today, self-checkout theft can be 16 times higher than with traditional cashiers. Some are going back to cashiers, and so few SMB retailers are rejecting them.

The Money Side of Things

Let me be blunt about the costs.

Right now, if you employ a casual cashier in Australia, you're paying around $27 per hour base rate, plus often casual loading. Then there's superannuation at 11.5%. And weekends? That's when it really hurts: 150% on Saturdays and 175% on Sundays. If you're open seven days a week, 12 hours a day, you're looking at over $85,000 a year for one full-time cashier position.

Now compare that to virtual cashier rates. Even if you're paying double or triple the local rate in India or Pakistan, you're looking at $6 to $9 an hour. That is a potential savings of $60,000 or more per year, per position. It's no wonder that so many were interested in the retail meeting.

As a virtual cashier watches the transaction through a camera, another major cost-saving is theft, since the customer knows someone is watching. They can't "accidentally" forget to scan items, and it's harder to swap barcodes, the banana trick where people swap a barcode on a cheaper item onto a dearer one..

What would be needed to set it up?

When we thought it through, it did not seem as complicated as it might sound.

• Professional remote desktop software so the virtual cashier can control your POS system
• A monitor facing the customer showing the cashier's video feed
• At least two cameras, one pointed at the customer, and the other at the scanning area
• Good quality microphone and speakers for a clear two-way conversation
• Reliable, fast internet (this is not negotiable; it would need to be business-grade, not home broadband)
• Recording capability for any disputes or investigations
• We could easily make it better with our AI 

So yes, there's an upfront cost for this equipment, but when you're saving $60,000 a year, it's minor. 

I am sure we could do it right now with some of our clients.

Things to Consider

It's worth thinking about.

I'm not going to pretend this is a perfect solution, nothing is, and there are legitimate concerns, but the reality is that your retail margins are tight and getting tighter. Labour costs keep going up. Theft keeps eating into your profits and your customers are increasingly comfortable with technology.

Now ask yourself what matters most to your customers? The lowest price, or a local person behind the counter? My gut feeling is that most will vote with their wallets.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

As Australian retailers modernise their operations, we strongly suggest you replace your barcode readers with 2D scanners that read QR codes. Upgrading to QR code readers, though with a minor hardware cost increase, provides notable benefits in data capacity, efficiency, and customer engagement, offering high ROI.

Enhanced Data Capacity and Versatility

The most significant advantage of QR codes is their superior data storage capacity. A standard barcode is sufficient only for a price or basic product code. In contrast, a QR code can hold over 4,200 alphanumeric characters. It contains a lot of text information that suppliers can use to store product specifications. We use it too for weighing items for the POS Systems.

Improved Scanning, Efficiency and Reliability

QR codes are engineered for superior performance in a fast-paced retail environment. Unlike traditional barcodes that need scanning in a straight line, two-dimensional QR codes can be read from any angle, so you don't have to line them up as much, which speeds up barcode reading significantly.

What I like about QR codes in particular is their better error-correction capability. I have seen them scanned even when the QR code is badly damaged, dirty, or obscured.

Streamlined Operations and Inventory Management

Because it has better error correction, it is much faster. There are far fewer attempts to read the barcode.

Industry pressure

QR codes are entering the market; we are now seeing products without barcodes, only with QR codes. If you want to handle such products, you need a scanner that reads QR codes, or you need to stick a barcode on each product.

Loyalty programs

Our CRM can use QR codes. Many suppliers also use a QR code for the same reason. 

Accessibility

QR codes are inherently accessible because suppliers favour them, as smartphones can easily scan them.

By adopting QR code readers, you are future-proofing your business.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

It is not an exaggeration to say that seeing the future is a gift every business wants, but such superpowers are only in fiction. Still, the predictive technology and analytics in your POS Software will give you a better understanding of future events. 

For example, using your data-driven analytics and artificial intelligence in your POS system can help you predict your ideal stock holding now based on its historical data. This can help you make real-time decisions, allowing, for example, you to overcome current delivery issues that are leading to shipping delays. 

The problem is that you now have thousands of stock items in your shop. Keeping track of all these stock items is, in practice, unworkable as it is too much work. To reduce the workload, many people try to pick the top-selling items and essentially ignore the rest. It works for the top, say 100 items, but leaves the rest out of control. But it is no problem for the computer to control thousands of items. 

So stop guessing, use your POS System. Users of our POS System have a free AI system years ahead of any other POS Software I know of that can predict future sales, a challenge every retail business faces. Although precise foresight remains fictional, modern Point of Sale (POS) systems with predictive analytics provide a close second. This technology analyses your past sales data to deliver highly accurate demand forecasts, enabling you to optimise stock levels, boost profitability, and make smarter purchasing choices.

The High Cost of Inaccurate Inventory

Ineffective inventory management directly impacts profitability. The most visible consequences are stockouts and overstocking, which contribute to a global problem for retailers. Inventory distortion, which includes both overstocks and stockouts, was projected to cost retailers almost $1.8 trillion in 2023. Stockouts alone account for nearly $1 trillion in lost sales for retailers worldwide each year, as customers who cannot find the product they want will often take their business elsewhere. Research shows that retailers lose nearly half of all intended purchases when a product is unavailable. These lost sales represent a significant revenue loss and can damage brand reputation and customer loyalty over the long term. Furthermore, many businesses resort to costly emergency measures such as expedited shipping and overtime labour to manage stock shortfalls, which erode financial stability.

From Guesswork to Growth: How Predictive Analytics Works

Manually tracking thousands of individual stock items is an unworkable and inefficient task that often leads to errors. Many retailers attempt to manage this by focusing only on their top-selling products, leaving the majority of their inventory unmanaged and susceptible to costly stockouts or overstocking. Predictive analytics integrated within a POS system automates this entire process, providing a comprehensive solution.

The system’s artificial intelligence uses historical data to forecast ideal stock levels for every single item. This enables data-driven, real-time purchasing decisions that can mitigate challenges such as shipping delays. For instance, consider a scenario where your system flags a specific item for review. The data might show you have only two units on hand, but the predictive analytics, based on recent sales velocity and seasonal trends, forecasts four sales for the upcoming week. The system immediately recommends a reorder, allowing you to prevent missed sales and ensure customer satisfaction.

Measurable Business Outcomes and ROI

The implementation of predictive analytics delivers tangible returns by converting data into strategic assets. By ensuring popular items are consistently available, you not only capture immediate sales but also strengthen customer loyalty and satisfaction. One of our clients, a mid-sized retail business, discovered an unforeseen surge in demand for a niche product line through their POS system's analytics. By flagging the initial sales trend, the system enabled them to adjust their ordering strategy promptly, capturing significant sales that would have otherwise been lost.

Moreover, this technology greatly cuts the financial cost of overstocking, freeing up capital that would otherwise be tied up in unsold goods. Case studies have demonstrated that businesses using real-time inventory tracking and predictive analytics can boost revenue by 12% and cut emergency replenishment costs by 30% within 6 months. By automating replenishment, organisations can cut stockouts by up to 40%, directly increasing profits and encouraging sustainable growth.

Conclusion

Shifting to a proactive, data-driven strategy is essential for growth.

Ready to stop guessing and start selling smarter?

Let me show you an example. See the example of a stock item above in the ordering screen. 

We have here two (2) on hand. The expected sales for this week (focus quantity) are four (4) sales a week. So the computer is saying you need to order ASAP or miss out on sales this week and a few next week until you get it in stock. 

That is one item. You now have thousands of stock items in your shop. Doing this is too much work manually. 

Using it, you can spot early warning signs.

One of my clients recently discovered that he had forgotten about Diya lamps. These surged in sales last month, so okay, he missed some but managed to get much of it. So he got some excellent sales that he would have missed out on without this predictive analytics. 

If you need any help or want to get an automated stock control system going in your shop, please get in touch with us.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

Product bundling is probably the most successful and standard marketing tool in business today. Ours is one of the few retail packages that does it really well, I have noticed. So please follow the logic and the solution below.

You go to buy a a cable TV plan. It will have a set of channels and access to some loyalty club, all for one price. Another example would be going to a restaurant and getting a special price if you buy a set menu. In both cases, if you add up the items, you will find it cheaper to take the bundle.

From the business point of view, the fact is that you were unlikely to pay for six (6) news channels. Once they sell you on one, the rest is a bonus. Few would buy a full meal at a restaurant, so they package a few high-margin items, sell them at a low price, and give you a bit of a discount, so you buy more. Both are classic examples of product bundling.

Where it often works well in retail is to take a hot seller and pair it with an item that isn't selling well, so you intend to discount it to get rid of it, then put the two items together and make a bundle at a special price. What you often find is that you can sell more as a result of the hot sellers and get a better price for the lousy seller together than you could obtain individually.  

Try it out. I think you will find it's a lot better an idea than discounting.

You will find it one of the most effective ways to generate traffic in your shop and generate sales.

Here is where you do it. In this example, one ordinary Father's Day card was used to sell four good sellers in one bundle.

Bundling several products into one package is a great retail strategy. It works well because customers see it as good value, which prompts them to spend more than they originally intended. For businesses, this tactic isn’t just about providing discounts; it’s also a smart way to control inventory and boost profits.

The real magic occurs when you combine a best-selling item with an older, slower-moving product. For example, if you have a popular book that sells quickly and a related magazine that isn't moving well, instead of cutting its price, you can bundle it with the bestseller. This way, you're not only selling the hot item but also moving the less popular one without significant losses. Customers tend to focus on the overall value of the package rather than individual prices. This simple strategy has helped some businesses increase their average sale amount by 20-30%.

There are several strategies to consider. Why not create exclusive bundles, such as a "new parent" kit? It could include a parenting book and a small toy, sold as a bundle. Then, offering your customers the option to buy items separately or as a discounted bundle. This encourages bundle sales. You can test products with different categories. Pairing a popular novel with a toy to get them to explore new products.

Bundles are especially incredible for holidays and seasons. Christmas 2025 is just around the corner. You could start thinking about gourmet hampers that mix books with chocolates or family activity boxes with board games and snacks. And don't forget the "build your own" bundle. Letting customers pick any three books for a set price, for instance, gives them a sense of control and personalisation that people really appreciate.

You don't have to guess what to bundle, either. Your own sales system is probably sitting on a goldmine of information. By looking at your sales reports, you can see what products people are already buying together. Suppose you notice that customers often buy a specific magazine whenever they pick up a particular genre of book. In that case, you’ve got a ready-made bundle idea that's already backed by real behaviour. 

A modern point-of-sale system can make this all seamless, allowing your staff to process a bundle with a single scan while automatically updating inventory and pricing.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

[1](https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Product_bundling)

The official start of Black Friday 2025 is 28 November, but waiting is not a good idea. Standard practice for many Australian retailers is to start now. Major retailers like Myer and David Jones have already begun their sales. Some promotions actually started in late October. Amazon has announced its Black Friday sale begins next week, on 18 November. The Black Friday period has expanded, making an early start crucial. Here are some images of shops that have started their Black Friday Sales now. I took some pictures of retailers now in a shopping centre in the DFO in Moorabbin, Vic, already pushing their Black Friday Sales.We are also doing a Black Friday Sale now. 

Leveraging POS System

Your POS systems provide critical tools, such as the "Top Selling Items" report, to identify high-demand products. Analyse your sales of last November 2024 and the previous 30 days to see what sells in your shop. Details here.

Conclusion

Early Black Friday sales in 2025 offer you a strategic edge by starting now.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

​As retailers, we're heading into our busiest and most profitable time of the year. As deliveries grow, managing delivery expectations is crucial to customer satisfaction and repeat business. Let me share some practical advice on handling your Christmas shipping schedule.

Choose the Right Service Level

Considering what happened last year, Express Post is your best mate for last-minute orders. It offers next-business-day delivery to 80% of Australian addresses. While it costs more than standard delivery, the tracking capabilities and faster delivery times make it worth every cent during the Christmas rush. Plus, you get verification from Australia Post that it was delivered.

Setting Your Store's Cut-off Dates

Remember, the dates below are guidelines, not guarantees. The earlier you send your parcels, the better their chance of arriving before Christmas. Consider offering Express Post as a premium option for last-minute shoppers who need guaranteed faster delivery.

Australia Post Christmas lodgement dates are here.  One point is that these dates apply to items delivered by 2:30 pm at an Australia Post outlet.

Delivery issues now

Australia is currently experiencing a shortage of postal and delivery drivers of about 14% as we approach Christmas. It's important to be cautious about pushing current shipping deadlines, as many shoppers do switch to retailers that offer faster delivery. Plus, if you do miss these deadlines, it will lead to significant customer dissatisfaction.

Domestic Deliveries

I recommend setting your store's order cut-off dates at least 2-3 days before Australia Post's deadlines:

• Regular parcels: Set your cut-off to 17 December
• Express orders: Final orders by 20 December

International Shipments

New Zealand: 13 December 2025

United States: 16 December 2025. Note: As of now, Australia Post can no longer use couriers to the USA.

Canada: 13 December 2025

United Kingdom: 13 December 2025

Practical Tips for Smooth Operations

-Packaging and Processing Tips Address Verification Essentials Proper addressing might seem basic, but it's crucial for timely deliveries. Include:

Unit/apartment numbers

Complete street address

Suburb and postcode

Trust me, no one will complain if you put too much detail.

Order Processing

• Dedicate specific times each day to packing orders
• Print shipping labels in batches
• Use your POS to generate packing slips automatically

Communication Strategies

Clear Messaging Display shipping cut-off dates:

• On your website homepage
• At checkout
• To confirm emails
• In-store signage

Customer Updates Use your POS system to:

• Send shipping notifications to your customer when you send it, and include the expected delivery date
• Include tracking information
• Alert customers about potential delays
• Bookmark the Australia Post Page for reference.

Preparing Your Team

• Understand and communicate delivery timeframes
• Handle shipping enquiries confidently
• Process orders efficiently using your POS system

Looking After Regional Customers

If you're serving customers in WA, NT, or regional areas:

• Add extra processing days
• Consider express shipping options
• Be upfront about extended delivery times

Last-Minute Solutions

For those inevitable last-minute shoppers:

• Offer click-and-collect until 24 December
• Provide gift cards as a backup option
• Consider local courier services for nearby customers, or deliver it yourself.

Remember, while Australia Post has announced its cut-off dates, we retailers must work backwards from them.

Planning and using your POS system effectively can turn the Christmas rush into an opportunity.

​

Recently, a client brought an almost-new computer, it was claimed, but it turned out to be an old one. Interestingly, the client himself is very computer-knowledgeable, and he was fooled.

Here, you can discover how to protect your investment and avoid getting scammed when buying a computer with these expert verification techniques. I always recommend purchasing only from reputable vendors. Note that this means more than just big ones, as many small vendors are reputable.

The Importance of Accurate Age Verification

Outdated systems disguised as new can create multiple problems:

• Performance issues affecting daily operations

• Compatibility problems with modern software

• Potential security vulnerabilities are threatening your business.

Consider these statistics:

• The average lifespan of a new system is 3 to 5 years; a two-year-old computer gives you 1 to 3 years, and a three-year-old probably has about a year left.
• Outdated systems will have higher repair costs.
• Performance degradation in older systems will lead to slower transaction times.

The Bigger Picture

While determining the exact age of a computer system is crucial, it's not the only factor to consider when upgrading your POS setup. The reliability, compatibility with your chosen Best POS software, and the vendor's support are just as crucial.. A slightly older, well-maintained system that's fit for purpose might serve your business better than a brand-new system that needs optimisation for retail operations.

Consider these key factors:

• System reliability and uptime
• Compatibility with modern POS software
• Vendor support and warranty options
• Overall performance for your specific retail needs

Serial Number: Your First Line of Defence

The serial number is your most reliable age indicator.

To locate it:

• Check the back of desktop computers

• Look under Computer

• Inspect the battery compartment.

The Difficulty of Changing Stickers

Now it's not impossible to change a sticker if it's there, but its not easy for anyone trying to do so deceptively:

• Designed for Tamper-Evidence: Manufacturers often use special adhesives and materials that cause the sticker to tear, shred, or leave behind a "VOID" pattern if peeled off.

• Hard to Replicate: The stickers are printed with specific fonts and layouts, and often include barcodes that are difficult to reproduce.

• Physical Imperfections: Check if the sticker is peeling at the corners, isn't aligned correctly, or has bubbles underneath it.

For Windows-based systems, use the Command Prompt.

"wmic bios get serialnumber"

It might display the serial number if it is in the BIOS.

Once you have the serial number, visit the manufacturer's website or contact customer support. Many companies can provide manufacturing date information based on the serial number.

However, many computers today do not have the serial number here, so you get a "Default String."

While serial numbers can be reliable indicators, sometimes they're not accessible. In such cases, the BIOS date provides another verification method."

BIOS Date: A Window into the Past

Look for the "BIOS Version/Date"

This date shows when the computer's BIOS was last updated. Now, some manufacturers or tech-savvy sellers might update the BIOS before selling, which could mask the system's actual age. So, like always, buyer beware.

Another way I prefer to determine the approximate time your computer was assembled is to check the BIOS date here. You can check the system information in Windows. To access this, type "system information" in the Start menu's search bar, then run it; a window will pop up showing details about the computer, including the BIOS Date.

What you will get is

This will only work if the computer's BIOS has not been updated since the initial installation. 

Here's how to check it:

1. Open the Command Prompt (search for it in the Start menu).
2. Type one of these commands and press Enter:

While you are there, look at the processor. Doing a net search, you can quickly find when the manufacturer first released that computer. It will not tell you how old the computer is, but it will tell you the oldest possible age.

Windows Installation: A Clue, Not a Guarantee

In Windows settings > About, it will tell you the Windows version and when Windows was installed. Again, it is no longer a guide, as a new version of Windows may have been installed on that computer.

Checking the Windows installation date can tell you its setup date, but it does not always indicate the hardware's age. Here's how to find this information:

1. Go to Windows Settings (use the Windows key + I shortcut).
2. Navigate to System > About.
3. Scroll down to find the Windows version and installation date.

However, someone may have reinstalled Windows by upgrading it. Again, this date might reflect that not the computer's age. However, it can be a helpful piece of the puzzle when combined with other verification methods, as it can reasonably be assumed that the computer is older than this date. I can only emphasise that a computer cannot be older than its processor.

Check the Hard Drive

While the methods above help determine the age of the computer's core components, a savvy buyer should also inspect the components themselves. The hard drive is, I think, the most important as an old, heavily used drive is just real trouble.

How to Check Power-On Hours

You will need a free third-party tool to get this. CrystalDiskInfo is pretty good. It's the one I mainly use, but there are others. Download, install, and run this program. It will automatically scan your drives and display their health status and detailed information, including the "Power-On Hours" value.​

Interpreting the Results

By comparing Power-On Hours with other clues, such as the CPU release date, you can uncover the computer's true history. Let us say the laptop is 2 years old; one would expect the hard drive to be used about (2 years) x (250 days) x (8 hours) = 4,000 hours.

• Scenario 1: New Drive
  The hard drive has only 50 Power-On Hours. This suggests the hard drive was recently replaced. I would not complain about that.

• Scenario 2:Problems
  The seller claims the PC was "lightly used," but the Power-On Hours are really high (e.g., over 15,000).  Something does not sound right.

• Scenario 3: A Consistent Story
  The drive shows around 4,000 Power-On Hours. This story adds up.

By checking the Power-On Hours, you move beyond simply finding the computer's age and start to understand its history, condition, and actual value.

Component Inspection: Devil in the Details

For those with more technical know-how, inspecting individual components can reveal much about a system's age, but this raises another problem. I have seen people replacing components with older ones. If you open the computer, you may find stickers that can help you.

Summing up

It is not easy to find out. These methods, at best, can only help.

It's important to note that a computer's age is not always an accurate indicator of its performance or lifespan. An older computer that has been well-cared for often functions perfectly for many years. New computers that are lemons are not uncommon, either.

FAQ

Q: How can I tell if a computer is new?
A: Check multiple age indicators: serial number verification, BIOS date, CPU model release date, and Windows installation date. No method is foolproof, so various verification techniques provide the best assurance.

Q: What's the most reliable method to check a computer's age?
A: The serial number is the most reliable indicator when available. You need this number when contacting the manufacturer to obtain the manufacturing date.

Q: How do you find out how old a computer is?
A: Use multiple verification methods above.

Q: How do you find the date on the computer?
A: Access dates through System Information (systeminfo.exe) to find the Original installation date and BIOS Version/Date, or check Windows Settings > System > About for the installation date.

Q: What is the age of the computer System?
A: Generally, computer systems are typically categorised
- New (1-2 years)
- Middle-aged (3-5 years)
- Aging (5+ years) 

Most businesses value a computer for five years, and after that, it has no book value. 

Q: How old is my computer in human years?
A: This is an awful measure, but it is commonly stated that a computer ages at five human years for each actual year. 

Q: Can the BIOS date be manipulated?
A: The BIOS can be updated, which changes its date. That's why using multiple verification methods is essential rather than relying solely on BIOS information.

Q: How do I check the Windows installation date?
A: Access Windows Settings > System > About. While this shows when Windows was installed, remember that Windows could have been reinstalled on older hardware.

Q: What should I do if I discover my "new" computer is used?
A: Document all evidence, contact the seller immediately for resolution, and if necessary, file complaints with consumer protection agencies. 

Q: How often should I replace my computer?
A: Replacement for business and POS systems is typically recommended every 3-5 years. Systems older than this are often prone to performance issues and security vulnerabilities.

Q: Can I trust component inspection?
A: Component inspection can be helpful but requires technical knowledge. Be aware that components can be swapped, so this method should be used alongside other verification techniques.

Q: What if the serial number shows "Default String"?
A: This is common in modern computers, where the serial number isn't stored in the BIOS. In these cases, check the device's physical serial number or use alternative verification methods.

Q: How can I verify the age of individual components?
A: Use system information tools to identify component models, then cross-reference their release dates with manufacturer specifications. However, keep in mind that components may have been replaced over time.

Updated: I was asked some questions by a client a few days ago, so rather than answer them, I decided to rewrite this article and give my readers here an answer too.

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director at POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience. He consults to various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

Dear Valued Customer,

We have received several inquiries about renewing EFTPOS plans, and we are writing to provide strategic advice in light of the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) proposed surcharging reforms. We recommend proceeding with caution before committing to any new or existing supplier.

The RBA is moving to ban surcharges on EFTPOS, Visa, and Mastercard payments, with the changes likely to be effective from July 2026.

Looking at these blended-rate surcharging plans currently being promoted by EFTPOS providers, we have big doubts about some of their claims. While these plans are often presented with attractive incentives, they may expose your business to higher-than-necessary fees once you can no longer pass on those costs to customers.

Our priority is your business's long-term profitability.

You can give us a call to discuss your options if you want.

Best regards,

Bernard Zimmermann

Written by:

Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.

​

 Don't Get Left Behind: Upgrade Your Shop with Our Biggest Black Friday POS Sale Ever!

Is your old cash register slowing you down? This Black Friday, revolutionise your newsagency with a next-generation POS system at an unbeatable price. We've negotiated exclusive deals with our suppliers to help you boost efficiency, manage your unique inventory, and increase profits. This is a limited-time offer you can't afford to miss.

Secure Next-Gen POS Systems at Low Prices

Now is a good time for us to offer you low prices, as many of our partners have excess stock that they know they cannot clear out for months. They are keen to move, so we offer to pass some good savings on to you to help you and them. We tell them what we want: "Our Black Friday Sale is here, with limited-time offers and doorbuster deals!" That's why we worked with our suppliers to bring you incredible Black Friday deals.

I can tell you this: when this stock goes, it doesn't return at these prices.

Huge Savings on Computer Equipment

If you've been holding off on upgrading your computers and tech gear, now is a great time to take the plunge! We have deep discounts. See our newsletter for details.

Why Upgrade Now? 

Inflation and the Australian Dollar

This is the last chance to get such great prices on computer equipment. With rising inflation and the weakening Aussie dollar against the US dollar, prices are expected to increase next year.  The dollar doesn't look pretty right now.

Improved Efficiency

Upgrading your POS system can lead to faster checkouts and happier customers, ultimately driving more sales. Stay ahead of the competition by investing in technology that supports long-term growth.

Call Us Now for a Free Quote and See How a Modern POS System Can Transform Your Shop.

Offer Ends Soon!.